As businesses look to optimise fulfilment, reduce delivery errors, and meet customer expectations for flexibility, smart lockers are fast becoming essential infrastructure. But what exactly is a smart locker, and how do these systems work?
In this article, we go beyond the buzzwords and break down what smart lockers really are—focusing on the hardware, software, and connectivity that make them work. We also explore common use cases and how these systems fit within modern operations.
A smart locker is more than just a box
A smart locker is a secure, electronically controlled compartment system used for unattended delivery and collection of goods. Each locker system consists of three key components:
- Locker modules – Units with compartments of varying sizes and temperature zones (ambient, chilled, frozen, heated).
- A central terminal – A touchscreen interface that manages access, customer interaction, and on-site software functions.
- Cloud-based software – Manages real-time communication between the business, the terminal, and any integrated systems (e.g. POS, OMS, WMS).
Together, these components enable secure, streamlined transactions—no staff needed at the handoff point.
How do smart lockers work? A typical workflow.
While every operation is different, the typical smart locker workflow is simple—yet powered by robust, enterprise-grade technology.
At Click n Collect, we take a service-led design approach, tailoring workflows and integrations to fit your environment. For businesses that want to move fast, we also offer a reliable out-of-the-box solution—configurable, scalable, and ready to deploy.
Here’s how it usually works:
- Order is created (via ecommerce, POS or OMS)
- Locker is assigned based on predefined rules (e.g. temp zone, size, or delivery schedule)
- Staff or courier loads the order and closes the door
- Customer is notified via SMS, email, or app
- Customer collects using a secure QR code, PIN, or mobile app access
- System updates status and sends data back to your systems via API or webhook
Want a deeper dive? See our article: How do parcel lockers work?
Smart locker hardware: built for real-world environments
Smart locker systems vary depending on use case and location. Some are indoor-only, others weatherproof for outdoor use. Features include:
- Temperature control (for groceries, pharmacies, or food pantries)
- Self-closing, insulated doors (for energy efficiency)
- ADA-compliant access points and optional braille keypads
- Integrated roof with LED lighting (for safety and visibility)
- CCTV and access logs (for security and auditability)
Smart locker software stack
Behind the scenes, a smart locker runs on a layered tech stack:
- Server software manages business logic, APIs, order status, analytics, and remote access
- Terminal software is the user interface—configurable by business or customer workflow
- Locker module firmware handles compartment control, sensors, and status
We support Single Sign-On (SSO), secure role-based access, and custom APIs to integrate with ERP, POS, ecommerce, or order management systems.
Common use cases for smart lockers
Click n Collect lockers are used across industries to solve different challenges:
- Retail & grocery: Click & collect, returns, BOPIS/BORIS
- Pharmacy: After-hours prescription pickup with age verification
- Food banks & pantries: Dignified, private food access
- Corporate & logistics: Internal deliveries and unattended drop-offs
Explore our industry solutions:
Want to compare costs or see ROI?
We’ve crafted specific insights and resources to help businesses evaluate smart locker pricing and long-term value:
Final thoughts: what makes a locker system smart
A smart locker is more than a box with a keypad—it’s an intelligent fulfilment tool that integrates with your systems, scales with your growth, and improves how goods are delivered and received.
Looking for guidance on locker deployment or custom integrations? Get in touch with our team or explore our latest insights and resources.
